Beyond the Data: 2024 NAEP math results are alarming

Beyond the Data: 2024 NAEP math results are alarming

Below is a letter on the Release of 2024 NAEP Math Results from our member and partner at the Collaborative for Student Success that the Greater Washington Board of Trade has signed on to and supports:

The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results in mathematics should alarm us all and spur urgent action — particularly as recent research shows that math scores are closely tied to salary at age 30 for children of all backgrounds.1 Yesterday’s release of the Nation’s Report Card highlights significant and ongoing challenges in student math achievement — challenges that must be addressed by states, districts, and schools to prepare students for the workforce demands of today and tomorrow.

“Every time our nation is faced with low results on the NAEP exam, we express shock and dismay at the state of math education in our country,” said Jim Cowen, Executive Director of the Collaborative for Student Success. “But 48 hours later, the headlines fade, and little changes. This time must be different. Let’s commit to concrete action to improve math achievement for all students.”

We, the undersigned, recognize the challenge these results present. Rather than dwell on the numbers, we call on states and districts to take decisive action by adopting policies that will raise student math achievement. United, we ask policymakers to embrace bipartisan solutions that help ensure all kids — especially those from under-resourced communities — have access to a high-quality math education.

Together, we recommend six key strategies, backed by research and practice:

  • Expand access to high-quality instructional materials aligned to rigorous standards.
  • Provide educators with high-quality professional learning focused on effectively using instructional materials in the classroom.
  • Increase instructional time by extending learning opportunities before, during, and after the school day.
  • Automatically enroll students into advanced math courses based on objective assessment results or other data.
  • Hold teacher preparation programs accountable for equipping teachers with the skills and content needed to succeed in math instruction.
  • Leverage math coaches at the school or district level to work closely with teachers to improve classroom practice and, ultimately, student math achievement.

Moreover, we call upon local leaders to directly connect the math needs of our students to the workforce necessities of our communities. There’s no question that the more students that have a strong math education, the stronger our workforce will be.

“Business and industry leaders across our region, and the nation, are seeking applicants with strong math, reasoning, and data analysis skills,” said Jack McDougle, President & CEO, Greater Washington Board of Trade. “Both a child’s potential for success and the future health of our workforce are dependent on equipping students with the skills that math helps form and strengthen.”

Progress is Possible — and Already Happening
States across the country are proving that progress is within reach:

  • Rhode Island and Mississippi alike have taken concrete steps to increase access to high-quality instructional materials in math.
  • Texas, Washington, and North Carolina have implemented automatic enrollment policies to ensure students are not overlooked for advanced math coursework.
  • Arkansas and Massachusetts have strengthened teacher preparation programs, requiring higher standards for math instruction.
  • Alabama and Colorado are offering programs and resources that empower teachers to improve instruction and extend learning beyond the classroom.

These success stories demonstrate that bipartisan action can yield real results. Now is the time for every state and district to follow their lead.

Yes, the NAEP results are concerning — but we cannot let them be the final word. Instead, they should be the starting point for collective action. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to excel in math.

It is time to move past the data and ensure that our collective actions speak louder than the numbers released yesterday.

Below are companies and organizations that have signed on to support this letter: 

A+ Education Partnership
Best NC
Collaborative for Student Success
EdTrust
EdTrust-West
Educate Texas
Education Reform Now
Educators for Excellence – NY
EmpowerK12
ExcelinEd
Greater Washington Board of Trade
Just Equations
Maryland Out of School Time Network
Maryland STEM Education to Employment Ecosystem
Memphis Lift
Nashville PROPEL
National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
National Council on Teacher Quality
National Parents Union
NewMexicoKidsCAN
OhioExcels
Parent Shield Fort Worth
Powerful Parent Movement
Prichard Committee
STEM Center of Excellence, Inc.
Thomas B. Fordham Institute
TNTP
Zearn Math

Letter of Support: Enable Enhanced Broadband Deployment for Improved Connectivity in Prince George’s County

About This Letter of Support: Greater Washington Board of Trade signed on to this letter of support with our member Crown Castle, which advocates for implementing Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community.

We are writing to advocate for the implementation of Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community. While the County’s Department of Public Works & Transportation and Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement has been engaged since the spring of 2024, we have yet to see movement on its implementation.  

Rapid Connect uses a small moving crew and safety vehicles to simultaneously cut, place, and seal underground fiber. This method meets the highest safety standards, is environmentally conscious, minimizes disruption and community impact, reduces deployment time, and blends seamlessly into our streetscape. As a result of this simplified construction process, Crown Castle can complete fiber construction in weeks instead of months, and at a fraction of the cost.  

Data demand is growing quickly. For instance, it’s expected that mobile data traffic in North America will grow by 150% by 2029. Improved connectivity is crucial for improving access to vital resources and services, including educational opportunities, digital healthcare, connected transportation, public safety and many of the Plan Prince George’s 2035 strategies. As connectivity demands surge, Rapid Connect is the fastest and most effective solution to build networks that can keep pace with each community’s growing needs. In Addition, embracing this type of innovation can help communities become broadband ready and more competitive as states allocate funding. Crown Castle has successfully rolled out Rapid Connect in neighboring communities, including Montgomery County, D.C., and Alexandria.  

We urge the County to support the adoption of Rapid Connect. Modern life depends on broadband access, and Rapid Connect can expand access much faster than traditional construction methods to foster a more connected community and ensure Prince George’s County remains competitive and prosperous. 

Sincerely, 

Ashley Greenspan 

External Affairs – DC, MD & VA 

Crown Castle 

Testimony: Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024 (DC B25-1004)

About this Testimony: The Greater Washington Board of Trade has expressed strong support for the Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024, emphasizing its potential to drive economic development, boost regional vitality, and enhance downtown Washington, D.C. recovery efforts. Highlighting the Capital One Arena’s legacy of hosting over 47 million visitors and 4,500 events since 1997, the Board underscores the significant impact of this district on local businesses, tax revenue, and the city’s cultural fabric.

Dear Chairman Mendelson, 

On behalf of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, I am writing to convey our strong support for the Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024. This legislation presents a significant opportunity to advance economic development, enhance our region, and preserve the dynamic atmosphere of downtown Washington, D.C. This initiative is particularly important as we strive to recover from the economic challenges of recent years.  

The proposed act aligns with the Board of Trade’s mission to advance a prosperous, inclusive, and vibrant regional economy. The revitalization of the downtown arena district, which is home to Capital One Arena and supported by our member organizations, including Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Clyde’s Restaurant Group, Capital One Bank, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), will have a meaningful impact on the region. Since 1997 the Capital One Arean has hosted 47 million people and more than 4,500 events that support local businesses, drives tax revenue, and contribute significantly to the cultural fabric of our city. A revitalized arena district will build upon this success by attracting more visitors, creating new job opportunities, and catalyzing further investment in downtown Washington. 

Our members recognize the critical role that a modernized arena district can play in sustaining and expanding these benefits. For instance, Monumental Sports’ commitment to enhancing the fan and visitor experience will be a boon for tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors, which are vital components of the downtown economy. WMATA also stands to benefit through increased ridership, connecting more residents and visitors with downtown events and activities, and supporting the ongoing financial health of our public transit system. 

We urge the D.C. Council to move forward with this legislation and invest strongly in our community’s future. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to working together to realize the full potential of this bill. 

Thank you for your leadership and commitment to a stronger, more dynamic Washington, D.C. 

2024 Election Regional Safety & Travel

Stay Safe & Connected This Election Season

Local and federal agencies in D.C. are actively preparing for the 2024 Presidential Election season, anticipating any potential safety concerns the region could face. Below are updates from transportation, government, and business officials regarding the week of the Presidential Election—a crucial period for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington area. The Board of Trade is committed to keeping our business community informed and will continue providing timely updates through Inauguration Day.

Key Dates We Will Follow:

  • Nov. 4-10: Election Week
  • Jan. 6-10: Election Certification Week in Congress
  • Jan. 19-21: Inauguration Week

Safety Information

D.C. Government:

D.C. successfully requested that the upcoming election certification on Jan. 6 be considered a National Special Security Event, a classification similarly applied to Inauguration Day by the government.

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office hosted a media briefing on Oct. 22nd to discuss the city’s preparations for the Election Day security and the rest of the Election season, including the week of the election certification and inauguration at the beginning of next year.

Deputy Mayor Nina Albert also held a stakeholders briefing on Oct. 24th that addressed further ways the city is addressing safety concerns, including sharing that people to sign up for alerts at alertdc.gov to stay up to date with important safety and travel updates regarding election season.

The mayor’s office expressed:

  • The need for patience as it could take weeks or days for a winner to be declared in the 2024 Presidential Election
  • Please be careful about misinformation or false information about election security and activities in Downtown D.C., specifically about what is being said on social media.
  • Stay prepared for a fluid and unpredictable security environment with extremist groups and possible civil unrest.

Capital Police:

The National Park Service (NPS) has instituted a partial closure in Lafayette Park and along the White House sidewalks for public safety in support of preparation and activities associated with the presidential inauguration. Closures will remain in place through February 2025. The northern part of Lafayette Park remains open for visitors and First Amendment activities. This year, work began Oct. 1 to accommodate additional time needed for a safer and more secure environment for construction activities. The Washington Post has also confirmed that Capitol Police is working with the D.C. National Guard to coordinate response needs better ahead of key election and inauguration dates.

DC Board of Elections:

Monica Evans, the executive director of the D.C. Board of Elections, said in a recent Washington Post story thatn“The D.C. Board of Elections added armed security to its office headquarters and mail ballot processing center this year.” For more on the DC Board of Elections work during this election season check out their “checklist” for this November.

Department of Homeland Security:

The Department of Homeland Security has classified the upcoming electoral count, set for January 6, 2025, as a National Special Security Event. This designation grants the traditionally routine post-election event the same heightened security typically reserved for presidential inaugurations and political conventions. The Secret Service, which will oversee security for the count, has confirmed this arrangement.

Learn more about the election security measures being taken by DHS here.

Metropolitan Police Department:

While there has been no indication of any large-scale protests, events, demonstrations, or violent activities, MPD said in the statement to the Board of Trade that it encourages the public to remain vigilant. If you see something, say something. Please report threats and emergencies to 911. Keep your community safe by reporting suspicious activity by calling 202-727-9099, texting 50411, or visiting iwatchdc.org. Additionally, DC government will be in touch with business groups in the next week to schedule routine calls on security. Let me know if you need help being connected with the appropriate people scheduling those meetings.

MWCOG & Emergency Preparedness Council:

These two groups have been working hard to help share the importance of fighting mis-/dis-/mal-information surrounding the election and have been sharing information and strategies with government and business leaders on effective counterstrategiesin the context of the 2024 elections. In 2023, the MWCOG Board approved a resolution calling for continued regional participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), which provides local and state election officials with voter reports to prevent fraud and ensure accuracy. The board continues to encourage full participation by the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia in this resource. COG also convenes a regional Election Officials Technical Committee to coordinate and share information across jurisdictions.

Transportation Information

Election Night Traffic Updates

Vice President Kamala Harris will be having her Election Day headaquaters at Howard University, which has led to traffic reroutes in the area. Below is the map:

Inauguration Day Route Preparations in Downtwon D.C.

Right now, DDOT is planning to repave the Inauguration Day route and this could cause delays as this work continues through parts of Election Season. Below is a look at the Inauguration Day route (labled in red below) that extends from the White House to the U.S. Capitol Building. Pedestrian walking routes are also labled below in green and are vital to know if you will be in the area on Inauguration Day.

Inauguration Day Vehicle Access in Downtwon D.C.

Mayor Bowser met with D.C. Council recently to discuss safety preperation for Inauguration Day. In her presentation, her office included the vehcile access points for Inauguration Day from 2021, highlighting there will likely be a similar concept for Inauguration Day for this election cycle. Below is a look at the limited access drivers will see. The National Park Service has not released road closures yet, but you can check for more as they prepare for Inauguration Day here.

Advice For Downtown Businesses

Sign up to receive real-time alerts from the District on public safety, traffic impacts, and more on election and inauguration updates by visiting alertdc.dc.gov.

ReadyDC has resources to help businesses create emergency plans, protect critical information, and improve your workforce’s personal preparedness efforts. Learn more by visiting ready.dc.gov/business.

Report suspicious activity. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it at iwatchdc.org inform a police officer or call 911 if there is an emergency or you are in immediate danger. Also, keep up-to-date on the latest on Inuauguration Day from D.C. Government here.

Testimony: DC Public Space Committee Hearing on small cell infrastructure to enhance 5G internet access

About this Testimony: The Board of Trade has been a strong supporter of small cell infrastructure deployment in Washington D.C. to expand 5G internet access, which will provide better wireless service for first responders, allow for better education resources for students, and help grow community connectivity. On July 18, Danial Flores, GWBOT’s Vice President of Government Relations, submitted a testimony at D.C. Council’s Public Space Committee hearing. 

Good morning and thank you to the Public Space Committee for allowing me to testify this morning on the importance of small cells in Washington, D.C.

My name is Daniel Flores, Vice President, Government Relations. I’m speaking today on behalf of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, which represents all industry sectors in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and northern Virginia. For over 130 years, we have prided ourselves on our non-partisan commitment to the businesses that make our region thrive.

One of our top priorities as an organization is to support innovative solutions that improve our economy here in the DMV – and we believe that the proposal under consideration is one of those innovative solutions.

Considering we’re all joining this meeting via Zoom this morning, we all know just how important connectivity is to conducting business in our modern world. Innovative technology and connectivity have been proven to create better access to health, transportation, education and more.

But in pockets of the DMV, particularly high-traffic areas like downtown D.C., it can sometimes be hard to access cellular service. We commend the Public Space Committee for taking action in 2019 to allow the installation of small cells on existing infrastructure, but more must be done to ensure that all of D.C. has ready access to cell service.

The proposal before the Public Space Committee would allow small cells to be installed as standalone poles. An estimated 80 poles are needed to greatly improve connectivity throughout the District, and these poles would be as unobtrusive as the light poles or the Capital Bike Share stands we have all grown used to seeing throughout the city. This commonsense solution doesn’t even cost any taxpayer funding; rather, the carriers will cover the costs of installing the small cells and bringing greater connectivity to the District. It’s a win for businesses, for residents, for visitors, and for our government.

Without the installation of new small cells, D.C. runs the risk of falling behind in today’s digital economy at time when mobile data consumption is growing exponentially. Average monthly mobile data usage in North America is expected to grow by 216% per smartphone by 2028, and 5G networks will carry an estimated 69% of total mobile data traffic. Wireless “smart cities” will see $160 billion in benefits and savings through things like lower energy use and congestion. Throughout the United States, 5G connectivity is expected to drive up sales by $2.7 trillion and add up to $1.5 trillion to the U.S. GDP by 2025. Closer to home, the 5G economy is estimated to provide over $8.6 billion in economic benefits to D.C. and over 23,000 jobs.

The Greater Washington Board of Trade urges the Public Space Committee to approve the installation of standalone small cells throughout the District. Thank you for your consideration.

Testimony: Support for DC’s ‘BEST Act’, advancing economic equity and fostering entrepreneurship

About this Testimony:

Board of Trade President & CEO Jack McDougle submitted testimony on May 9, 2024, in favor of fully supporting the BEST Act, which was before the D.C. Council’s Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection Oversight Hearing before the Committee on Public Works and Operations. This piece of legislation would help spark economic equity and allow for a community that fosters entrepreneurship, which is much needed to help spark economic growth in the Greater Washington region.

Submitted Testimony: 

On behalf of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, we submit testimony in full support to the BEST Act and underscore its critical importance in advancing economic equity and fostering entrepreneurship in the District of Columbia.  

In Mayor Bowser’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Proposal, the inclusion of funding for the BEST Act reflects a strategic investment in our city’s economic vitality and the well-being of our communities. By reducing licensing fees, streamlining business license categories, alleviating late fees, and exempting micro-businesses earning less than $10,000 in annual revenue from licensing fees, the BEST Act addresses longstanding barriers to entrepreneurship, particularly for those from traditionally disadvantaged backgrounds. 

The Board of Trade recognizes the transformative potential of the BEST Act in promoting economic inclusivity and opportunity. Its provisions align with our commitment to fostering a business environment that empowers entrepreneurs from all walks of life to thrive and succeed. By leveling the playing field and removing obstacles to entry, the BEST Act paves the way for greater economic participation and prosperity for all residents of our District. 

Moreover, the Council’s Office of Racial Equity has affirmed that the BEST Act is poised to improve economic outcomes for Black, Indigenous, and other residents of color who seek to establish or grow their businesses. In a budgetary climate marked by heightened challenges for marginalized communities, it is imperative that the Council supports initiatives like the BEST Act, which serve as critical lifelines to entrepreneurship and economic advancement. 

Furthermore, the Board of Trade firmly believes that the BEST Act will contribute to the District’s ongoing recovery from the pandemic and promote small business growth. By fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation, the BEST Act will drive job creation, stimulate economic activity, and fortify our city’s resilience in the face of adversity. 

In conclusion, I urge you to support and prioritize the full funding of the BEST Act. By doing so, we reaffirm our collective commitment to building a more inclusive, vibrant, and prosperous economy for the benefit of all residents of our District. 

Thank you for your attention and dedication to this matter. 

Letter of Support: Virginia’s budget funding of WMATA and vital regional transportation

About this Letter of Support:

Board of Trade President Jack McDougle wrote a Letter of Support to Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, encouraging and praising the efforts of Virginia lawmakers addressing the short-term funding gap that WMATA was facing that could have impacted vital regional transportation in Downtown D.C., Northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland.

Submitted Letter: 

Dear Governor Youngkin, 

The Greater Washington Board of Trade continues to support Virginia by providing FY25 and FY26 funding for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). 

The importance of Metro to Virginia’s economic development cannot be overstated. Proximity to frequent, safe, and reliable Metro service is instrumental in attracting major investments, corporate relocations, the expansion of our regional workforce, and our overall quality of life. The economic activity supported by Metrorail contributes an estimated $1 billion annually in state tax revenues, benefiting not only Northern Virginia but the entire Commonwealth. 

We commend your efforts to work with lawmakers to reach a consensus on the biennium budget and urge you and the General Assembly to prioritize funding for Metro. The General Assembly had allocated $65 million for FY25 and $87 million for FY26, both to be matched by Northern Virginia jurisdictions. These funds constitute the essential minimum required to address Metro’s operating funding shortfall and meet formula commitments made by DC and Maryland.  

Metro is making progress as it rebuilds from the fallout caused by the pandemic, leading the nation in recovering passengers. Still, there are long-term governance, operating, and financial deficiencies that must be addressed. We are prepared to play a significant role in the recently announced effort between WMATA and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments to address these issues to ensure the system remains viable for the long-term.  

I urge you and the General Assembly to work towards a budget that includes adequate support for this essential transportation system. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your dedication to the prosperity of Virginia. 

Where our Policy & Advocacy team is focused heading into a busy 2024

The Board of Trade is excited to begin 2024, expanding upon previous years’ work with new and varied policy and advocacy efforts. In 2023, we substantially expanded its policy footprint in the region by adding staff members Kyle McColgan, SVP of Policy, and Tyler Kirby, Policy Analyst, in addition to Daniel Flores, VP of Government Relations. In the coming year, the Board of Trade will be bringing Holland & Knight on board to represent the Board of Trade in the District of Columbia in a continuation of 2023’s efforts working with McGuireWoods Consulting and G.S. Proctor & Associates in Virginia and Maryland respectively. We worked to expand upon its convening role through programs like the Regional Policy Leadership Series and the Capital Region Transportation Forum, which brought together transportation leaders from across the region in conversation with our members, facilitating regionalism and collaboration between the private and public sectors to address concerns around talent acquisition and retention and the long-term viability and sustainability of public transportation.  

The coming year will see the Board of Trade focus on fostering regional collaboration and cooperation to overcome mounting funding difficulties within the region, allowing for necessary changes that will preserve and better the business environment. Only through addressing the interrelated issues of crime, downtown revitalization, and the success and long-term sustainability of regional public transit will the region’s unrivaled resources, especially the quality and size of its workforce and unique relationship with the federal government, continue to bolster the region, keeping it near the apex of the market. 

The ability of the region’s business environment to compete with emerging competitor cities around the nation rests on the ability of its jurisdictions to work together, not only with one another but with the private sector. Only through collaboration can the region address many of its endemic problems, now being brought to the fore as the world experiences unprecedented economic and political shocks and tectonic shifts, which fundamentally change the shape of the local, national, and international economies. As work from home becomes more engrained in post-pandemic work culture, the region must reimagine how commercial real estate incentivizes regional residents to remain in and move to the region’s core. Doing so will require a multimodal approach that addresses long-term funding issues for WMATA and significant road projects like the American Legion Bridge, distressing crime trends that depress tourism and recreation within the district, and necessary improvement to the region’s general business environment to incentivize investment and disrupt negative emigration trends among the most desirable young professionals out of the region.   

With legislative sessions in Virginia and Maryland underway, the Board of Trade will continue to advocate for maintaining and improving the region’s business environment, connecting policymakers and leaders with one another and with the region’s business community. Collaboration across sectors, private and public, and across jurisdictional boundaries, remains necessary for this continued elevated status of the Greater Washington region, nationally and internationally. Only through intersectoral and inter-jurisdictional communication can we expect a risk-averse and sometimes slow-moving region to adapt to the new, constantly changing environment, and maintain its appeal and competitiveness relative to the nations and the world’s emergent competitor markets.  

Looking into 2024: Board of Trade updates in the new year!

Meet our 2024 Board of Trade officers! At the forefront is Steve Proctor, President and CEO of G.S. Proctor & Associates, who steps into the role of 2024 Board Chair. Together with Steve, this dynamic leadership will continue to guide the Board of Trade as we navigate new intricate and rewarding challenges, promising higher impact and a strengthened network within our community. Embracing these hurdles with the same vigor that defines us, we’re geared up to tackle them head-on, leveraging our experiences and collective strength to make an even greater difference.

See our full list of Board Members here

In 2023, we welcomed over 30 esteemed organizations, enriching our community and elevating the Board of Trade to new heights. As we anticipate the exciting opportunities of 2024, our existing members are integral to our success. If you know of an organization that should be part of this thriving community, take action! Reach out today to explore the benefits of joining the Board of Trade community.

See our full list of Member Organizations here

Join us on March 13 at the Washington National Cathedral for our premier event, the 104th Mid-Winter Dinner, presented by PNC Bank. This exclusive black-tie event is your chance to connect with business, government, and community leaders outside the office. Experience a pre-dinner cocktail reception, followed by a seated 3-course dinner, creating valuable connections with key players in the region. Don’t miss this extraordinary night of camaraderie and collaboration – secure your spot now and elevate your presence at the heart of the action!

Get tickets and register here

We are pleased to welcome Mayor Muriel Bowser next week at our in-person Regional Policy Leadership Series event on January 17. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion addressing critical issues within DC’s Central Business District. Mayor Bowser will delve into pressing topics such as efforts to enhance public safety, WMATA’s budget-related impacts, and the ongoing challenge of downtown revitalization amidst the prevailing work-from-home dynamic affecting businesses in the District.

Register here for this event

EVENT CALENDAR: View more events and professional opportunities

The Board of Trade’s 2023 Annual Meeting at MGM National Harbor was a resounding success! Our outgoing chair, Jermaine Johnson, and 2024 Chair, Steve Proctor, outlined some noteworthy highlights, such as a remarkable 90% member retention rate, an expansion of policy efforts, and strategic plans to address the significant funding gap for WMATA. Presenting sponsor Kaiser Permanente’s Ruth Williams-Brinkley shared their alignment with the Board of Trade and our mutual mission to build healthy communities. Deborah Rutter of the Kennedy Center emphasized the pivotal role of the arts in public safety, featuring discussions on its economic impact and community well-being. A compelling table read from ‘Enough: Plays to End Gun Violence,’ crafted by playwright Niarra C Bell, ignited a panel on crime prevention with MPD’s Chief of Police, Pamela Smith. As we approach 2024, our focus remains on tackling new challenges, advocating fervently, and implementing targeted initiatives to keep our region competitive, engaged, and inclusive.

Click here to read more about this impactful event

The Board of Trade brought together the Greater Washington region’s attorneys general in mid-December to discuss important issues and topics surrounding Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Topics ranged from the ongoing Meta lawsuit, the impacts of artificial intelligence, and how our top legal officials in Greater Washington are combating the epidemic of crime in the region.  

Click here to read and watch more

WMATA Provides Updates on FY25 Budget Deficit

At our Board meeting in May, WMATA’s General Manager and CEO, Randy Clarke, presented an overview of Metro’s operating and financial situation. At that time, reliability and services were improving and ridership was increasing though not yet to pre-pandemic levels. The General Manager also indicated the agency was forecasting a significant funding gap of $750 million for FY25 due to a variety of factors.  

Last week, management presented an updated financial picture along with potential remedies to help reduce the FY25 budget deficit. 

We are encouraged by management’s commitment to realizing internal cost savings and efficiencies. The nearly $100 million in one-time savings plus roughly $600 million in other reductions over the next 10 years is a good start and we expect that WMATA’s management and Board will continue working to identify additional improvements. 

However, a proposal to utilize capital funds to reduce the operating deficit is not desirable though might unfortunately be necessary. The structural problems that have impaired WMATA since its inception must be addressed to find a sustainable long-term solution. 

The Board of Trade will continue to work alongside the region’s elected and appointed officials, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, the MetroNow Coalition, and other business and regional organizations to ensure WMATA is able to meet the region’s transit needs while operating effectively, efficiently, and safely. 

Metro services are critical to our region’s economy and quality of life; even more so as the region continues to change and grow. We must consider this an opportunity to think longer-term to create an integrated mobility system for all residents, businesses, and communities. 

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